Code
U0651
Generic
U — Network/User
Lost Communication With EGR Sensor A
Views:
UK: 13
EN: 25
RU: 20
AI status
Completed
Completed
100%
Causes
- Open, short, or intermittent wiring between EGR sensor A and its controller
- Poor connector connection, corrosion, bent pins, or water intrusion at the sensor or harness connectors
- Faulty EGR sensor/module or internal sensor electronics
- Loss of reference power or ground to the sensor
- CAN/LIN bus faults or other network communication errors
- Failed or poorly programmed PCM/ECM or sensor module after replacement
Symptoms
- Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) illuminated (check engine light)
- Reduced engine performance, hesitation, or rough idle if PCM enters limp mode
- Reduced fuel economy or increased emissions
- Possible lack of expected EGR operation (stiction or stuck valve) reported by other codes
- Other modules reporting related U-codes or loss of multiple sensor data streams
What to check
- Use an OBD-II scan tool to read U0651 and any additional stored codes and freeze frame data
- Verify vehicle battery voltage and charging system are within specification
- Check for other communication codes on the CAN/LIN bus (U0100, U0121, etc.)
- Visually inspect the EGR sensor connector and harness for corrosion, damage, or loose pins
- Wiggle the harness and connector while watching live data for intermittent changes
- Confirm reference voltage and ground at the sensor connector with key on, engine off
Signal parameters
- EGR sensor typically uses a 5 V reference and ground with a signal output proportional to valve position (typical signal ~0.5–4.5 V depending on position)
- EGR temperature/pressure sensors (if used) will output a voltage or frequency corresponding to measured parameter
- Network communication uses a two-wire differential bus (CAN) — normal resting voltages are near mid-supply (~2.5 V) on each CAN line; communication appears as differential signals on the bus
- Expected: stable reference voltage, low-resistance ground, and a valid signal waveform when the EGR is actuated
Diagnostic algorithm
- Record all stored codes and freeze frame; note if U0651 is current or intermittent. Check for other network-related U-codes.
- Verify battery voltage (12.6 V+ at rest) and proper charging; low voltage can cause communication errors.
- Visually inspect sensor harness and connector for damage, corrosion, or water intrusion. Repair any obvious problems.
- With a good scan tool, attempt to view live data from the EGR sensor. If no data is present, verify power and ground at the sensor connector with key ON (reference ~5 V and chassis ground).
- Backprobe the sensor connector: confirm reference voltage, signal voltage, and ground. Wiggle harness and connectors while observing readings to find intermittent faults.
- If the sensor uses network communication (CAN/LIN), check bus integrity: measure CAN_H and CAN_L voltages at the connector (resting voltages near mid-supply) and verify termination resistance (~60 Ω across CAN_H and CAN_L). Use an oscilloscope if available to view messages.
- If power/ground and bus appear good but no valid signal, swap with a known-good EGR sensor (if applicable) or substitute a compatible sensor to verify behavior.
- If sensor replacement resolves communication failure, clear codes and test drive to confirm. If problem persists, investigate PCM/gateway for fault or perform software reflash/programming per manufacturer procedures.
- After repairs, clear codes and recheck to ensure U0651 does not return and related systems operate normally.
Likely causes
- Corroded or loose connector at EGR sensor harness
- Damaged wiring (chafing, pinched, rodent damage) on signal, power, or ground circuits
- Failed EGR sensor or sensor module
- Faulty CAN/LIN network termination or short between bus wires
- PCM or gateway module fault or required software update/reflash
Fault status
Status
U0651 — Lost Communication With EGR Sensor A. The control module is not receiving valid data from EGR Sensor A. May set MIL and affect emissions/EGR control. Investigate wiring, connectors, sensor, network, and module programming.
Repair difficulty: Medium
Diagnostic time: 1.0-3.0 hours
Workshop Manuals
Available brands with manuals
2
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Audi A3 (1997) – 1.6L 4-cylinder (2‑valve) Engine Mechanical Components Service Manual (AEH, AKL, APF) – Edition 07.2002
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AUDI A3 (2004) Workshop Manual — 2.0L FSI Turbo (4‑cyl, 4‑valve) Engine, Mechanics — Edition 03.2017
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Audi A3 2004 — Electrical System (Workshop Manual, Edition 02.2018)
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Audi A4 / A4 Cabriolet — Auxiliary Heater Workshop Manual (Edition 08.2004)
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Audi A4 / A4 Cabriolet (1.8T 4‑cyl turbo) — Motronic Injection & Ignition System Service Manual (Edition 01.2015)
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Audi A8 (2003) — Electrical System Workshop Manual (Edition 08.2014)
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LAND ROVER 3
Land Rover Defender 300Tdi — Workshop Manual (1996 model year)
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Land Rover Defender Workshop Manual Supplement & Body Repair Manual (1999 & 2002 MY)
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Land Rover Range Rover — Electrical Library (LRL 0453ENG, 2002)
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